SYMBOLS 1. Certain objects take on symbolic value in the TKM. That is, an object is used by the author as apart of the setting or narrative, yet that object points to or represents something outside itself. Of course, a central symbol is the mockingbird, described by Miss Maudie as a creature that should never be killed because it is harmless and even provides song for the enjoyment of others. Both Boo Radley and Tom Robinson are basically blameless individuals who are at the mercy of society, yet society is cruel to Boo, and ultimately Tom is murdered. The symbol of the mockingbird also points to Scout, both as an innocent child and as the grown-up narrator, who "sings a song" in telling the story. Can you think of ways in which the following function as symbols in TKM ?
the mad dog
(community gone mad;/berzerk)
the treehouse
( A retreat from the world that gives oversight)
Camellias
(the old genteel South, living in the past)
the gun
(an abuse of power - Atticus' view; a means of power - the lynch-mob view)
the cemented hole in the tree
(stories and "singers" or storytellers being thwarted)
columns on buildings
(persistence of the old South; a facade; anomalies)
Atticus' pocket watch
( Love of and absent mother)
2. Can you assign symbolic meaning to any of these objects in terms of the present day? How do these present day symbolic meanings differ from the meanings that those symbols held in the novel? Symbolism
TKAM Story Elements
To Kill a Mockingbird
Symbolism
TKAM BlogSpot - Symbols
SYMBOLS
1. Certain objects take on symbolic value in the TKM. That is, an object is used by the author as apart of the setting or narrative, yet that object points to or represents something outside itself. Of course, a central symbol is the mockingbird, described by Miss Maudie as a creature that should never be killed because it is harmless and even provides song for the enjoyment of others. Both Boo Radley and Tom Robinson are basically blameless individuals who are at the mercy of society, yet society is cruel to Boo, and ultimately Tom is murdered. The symbol of the mockingbird also points to Scout, both as an innocent child and as the grown-up narrator, who "sings a song" in telling the story. Can you think of ways in which the following function as symbols in TKM ?
Symbolism